Kansas higher ed urged to help startup companies

Gov. Sam Brownback says he is considering a program that would reward universities and technical colleges for helping startup companies.

Associated Press

Gov. Sam Brownback says he is considering a program that would reward universities and technical colleges for helping startup companies.

During a meeting of economic advisers Wednesday, the governor said it's only an idea and no details of how to structure the program have been finalized.

But he says the schools could be paid $2,000 to $5,000 to sponsor startup companies. He says the program would help create an entrepreneurial atmosphere in the state.

The Wichita Eagle reports (http://bit.ly/XcZb6T ) Graham Toft, president of the consultant group GrowthEconomists Inc., suggested Kansas should rebrand itself by focusing on its educated workforce, quality schools, robust transportation and work ethic.

He says the state should also seek more federal grants for small business innovation and research.